Belgian sports industry challenges gambling ad ban
Belgian football and sports industry stakeholders are taking legal action against a total ban on gambling advertising in the country
Belgian sports industry stakeholders, including the CEO of the Belgian Pro League, are taking legal action against a total ban on gambling advertising in the country that they fear will cut into sports revenues and push fans to unsafe offers from unauthorised operators.
They argue that the ban won't protect supporters against gambling addiction and instead are calling for a strong legal framework in the field of sports betting, including clear agreements on its promotion, to encourage responsible gambling and ensure financial stability for the sports sector.
The royal decree, which will ban betting ads from 2025 onwards, is estimated to cut at least 12% of the sponsorship revenues for Belgian football clubs.